The synthesis of 5-substituted hydantoins

Abstract

The Bucherer-Bergs reaction is a classical multi-component reaction that yields hydantoins, which can be hydrolysed to afford α-amino acids. Hydantoins have many uses in modern organic synthesis, and this moiety has been included in a number of therapeutic agents, which have a wide range of biological activities. Herein, we report a mild synthesis of 5- and 5,5-substituted hydantoins from α-aminonitriles using Hünig’s base and carbon dioxide. This reaction can be performed in excellent yields, using a variety of organic solvents and is applicable to a range of substrates. In an extension to the above methodology, a one-pot Lewis acid-catalysed synthesis of hydantoins from ketones has also been developed and optimised in organic media. This reaction can be performed in excellent yields and is suitable for the synthesis of 5- and 5,5-substituted hydantoins.